Scuba

Maui is a world-class diving destination, with the West and South sides offering the most accessible and popular spots due to their protected, leeward positions.

Westside: Ka‘anapali / Lahaina

This area is famous for its dramatic lava formations and the "turtle car wash" stations.

Popular Scuba Spots

  • Mala Wharf (Lahaina): Often called the "Shark-Turtle-Wreck" dive. The old collapsed pier has created an artificial reef teeming with white-tip reef sharks and dozens of sea turtles.

  • Black Rock (Pu‘u Keka‘a): A classic shore dive at the north end of Ka‘anapali Beach. Great for night diving to see eels, lobsters, and the occasional manta ray.

  • Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park): An easy entry shore dive with a shallow, expansive reef. Perfect for beginners or a relaxed morning dive.

  • Honolua Bay: A Marine Life Conservation District. While it’s a long walk with gear, the coral density and fish variety are incredible during the calm summer months.

Associated Businesses

  • In2Scuba Diving Maui: Specializes in shore dives and small groups.

  • Maui Diving - Scuba & Snorkel Center: A full-service 5-star PADI center in Lahaina with boat and shore options.

  • Black Rock Scuba: Located right on Ka‘anapali Beach for easy access to Black Rock and boat charters.

  • Extended Horizons: Known for their eco-friendly approach and Lanai cathedral trips departing from Lahaina.

A white yacht with multiple levels on a blue ocean, surrounded by cliffs and mountains under a partly cloudy sky. Two people are paddleboarding near the yacht.

Northside: Wailuku / Kahului

The North Shore is typically the "windy side." Because of the consistent trade winds and heavy swells, it is not a traditional hub for scuba diving.

Diving Reality

  • Spots: There are very few established scuba spots here due to rough conditions and low visibility. Baldwin Beach and Ho‘okipa are world-class for windsurfing and surfing, but rarely for diving.

  • Businesses: Most divers in Wailuku/Kahului drive 20-30 minutes to the South or West sides to dive.

  • Dive Shops: While you may find general sporting goods stores, most dedicated dive shops are located closer to the reefs in Kihei or Lahaina.

Upcountry: Paia / Makawao / Haiku

Similar to the Northside, Upcountry is located at higher elevations (slopes of Haleakala) or along the rugged windward coast.

Diving Reality

  • Spots: There is no diving in the towns of Makawao or Haiku as they are inland. Paia sits on the coast, but the water is generally too turbulent for safe scuba diving.

  • Safety Note: Divers are strictly advised not to drive to Upcountry (Kula, Haleakala) for at least 18–24 hours after diving due to the high elevation and the risk of Decompression Sickness (the "bends").

  • Businesses: You won't find dive shops here; however, many dive professionals live in these areas and commute to the harbors on the South or West sides.

Wooden Emporium building with signs for Black Rock Dive Centre, SSI Scuba Schools International, and symbols for snorkeling, diving, and gear. Palm trees in background, blue skies, and a person wearing a blue shirt near the entrance.

Southside: Kihei / Wailea

The Southside offers the clearest water on the island and is the primary departure point for trips to Molokini Crater.

Popular Scuba Spots

  • Molokini Crater: A 15-minute boat ride from the Kihei boat ramp. The "Back Wall" is a world-famous 300-foot drift dive for advanced divers.

  • Five Caves / Five Graves (Makena): A series of underwater lava caves and swim-throughs. It is one of the best spots to see reef sharks and turtles.

  • Ulua Beach (Wailea): The most popular introductory dive spot on Maui due to its easy sandy entry and two distinct reef systems.

  • St. Anthony Wreck: A 65-foot shrimp boat intentionally sunk as an artificial reef. It now sits in about 60 feet of water and is a favorite for turtle sightings.

Associated Businesses

  • Maui Undersea Adventures: Operates out of the Four Seasons Wailea; great for scooter dives and high-end service.

  • NeverDry Divers: Highly rated for shore dives and personalized instruction in the Kihei area.

  • Prodiver Maui: Specializes in boat dives to Molokini and the South Maui coastline.